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OKTOBER BASH PARTY NON-STOP MIXTAPE

2011-02-08T04:04:00.000-08:00

Curse One - The Love Potion Album

2011-02-06T03:57:00.000-08:00

Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Curse-One/347585932798

Maraming Salamat sa gumawa nito Mark Ian Sabayan / GHACK at sa nagproduce ng unang album Lux Breezy of Breezy Boyz & to John Ege of Beat.pro. Sobrang lapit na!! I Know you will like this one. ♥ Salamat sa inyong lahat sa pagtulak sakin para malabas to. ^^

Tracks:

1. Salamat ( Intro )

2. Ang Swerte Ko feat. Lux Breezy

3. Pagmamahal Sayo feat. Slick One

4. Magpakailanman

5. Kung Nauna Lang Ako Part 2 feat. Smugglaz & Slick One

6. Masaya Ko Sayo (Mellow Version)

7. Pinakamakinang na Tala feat. Slick One & Lux Breezy

8. Matamis na Panaginip feat. Breezy Boyz

9. Mahal na kita

10. Wag Muna Ngayon feat. Lux Breezy & Malabon Thugs

11. Sana Ikaw Nalang feat. Breezy Boyz

12. Tanging Hiling Part 3 feat. Slick One

13. After Date feat. Cookies & Cream

14. Yakap feat. Vlync Breezy

15. Nabihag Mo Part 2 feat. Lux Breezy

16. Sya na talaga

Credits / Shoutouts / Respect to: Alas ng Bliss, Espada Productions, Thugs Music, Crazy Family, Repablikan Syndicate, Wika Records, Beat.Productions, Tuesday Troops, Blindrhyme Productions, Skwaterhaws, Flee Music, 187 Mobstaz & to all. God bless y'all. One Love. Positive Vibes. KAPAYAPAAN!!!

Attention!

Ilang tulog nalang!

Feb 10, 2011 Thursday Night 9:00 PM

Curse One Album Launching The love Potion

Valentine Party ♥

Venue: AREA 05 SUPECLUB (Dating Ratski) Tomas Morato QC.

Entrance 150.00 With Free CD of Curse One The Love Potion Album

Bugoy na Koykoy - Sa Taas ng Taas Album

2011-02-06T02:49:00.000-08:00

SA TAAS NG TAAS album -- 18 Tracks -- P250 only!!!!

HOW TO BUY?

1. Direct Buying / Meet-up

Go to:

MRT GUADALUPE STATION or

MARKET! MARKET! (Fort Bonifacio, Taguig)

(Pero text me first! 0915-882-8836 or 0939-331-0253)

GREENHILLS area -- message nyo si Jeric "Chucky"

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?i...

CAVITE area (Sorrento, Panapaan, Bacoor) -- message or text nyo si Poodong

http://www.facebook.com/P00D0NG or 0915-810-4545

2. For Delivery

The following instructions only apply for shipping orders.

ALL ORDERS may be placed via Facebook or SMS (0915-882-8836 or 0939-331-0253)

Kindly indicate the following:

Whole Name:

Delivery Address:

Mobile Number:

# of orders

A confirmation message will then be sent within 48 hours. (With the Total Purchase Order Amount plus Shipping Cost)

Courier: LBC only

Shipping rates:

METRO MANILA AREA: P140

NORTHERN/SOUTHERN LUZON: P150

VISAYAS & MINDANAO: P155

(Para makatipid kayo sa shipping, isabay nyo sa mga kaibigan nyo ang pag order para hati-hati nalang kayo sa shipping, per kilo kasi ang mga rates na yan.)

MODE OF PAYMENT: (Kindly present a valid ID- Student ID, SSS, Voter's ID , Passport or any government issued ID )

Western Union

Pera Padala Cebuana Lhuillier

LBC Instant Pera Padala

BPI ACCOUNT Number: 2169043186

Account Name: Marianne Bisnon

NOTE: All confirmed orders that are not paid within 3 days will be forfeited.

I will sms you if I have received your payment.

Shipping usually takes 1-2 days. Please inform me if the order has not been delivered within those days.

Enchanted River

2011-01-21T23:46:00.000-08:00

The Province of Surigao del Sur is indeed full of surprises and the Enchanted River is the best of them.

Hidden in Barangay Cambatong, 30-45 minutes away from the town proper is the Enchanted River with color like the pepsi-blue..very deep and very clear. VERY MAGICAL

Why enchanted?

Locals talk about the river being watched by spirits that is why no one swims there by 6 pm. In 1935, there were sightings of two strange women with long blonde hair and a man in green, who walked on the waters and disappeared. Occasionally, they appear before strangers or unwary locals and tongues would wag in quiet disbelief.

It was said that once an American diver tried to dive the depths but never reach rock bottom.

What was amazing also, and this even the locals cannot fathom why, was that although you can see many many big fishes in different varieties because of the clear waters, NO ONE has ever catch one - not by hand, by spear, or even by dynamite, or so they say.

Well, it would be up to us to believe in the stories. What's sure (and I know this for a fact having been to the place many times in the past) is that you wil truly be enchanted with the beauty of the river..

Another great thing about it is that the enhchanted river is actually very near the Hinatuan sea - which will explain its pepsi-blue color.

The Municipality of Hinatuan is 8 hours from Davao City and 4 hours from Butuan City passing thru Municipalities of San Francisco, Bagobo and Tagbina.

2008-11-16T11:08:00.001-08:00

Boracay Philippines
"finest beach in the world"

It is seven km long and one km width at its narrowest point, is situated off the northwest corner of the island of Panay, and lies in the Western Visayas island-group, or Region 6, of the Philippines. In Boracay, there are three villages or barangays, Yapak, Balabag and Manoc-Manoc.Yapak is generally hilly but there are roughly beautiful beaches such as Ilig-Iligan, Pukashell and Balinhai beach.Balabag is the central part of the island and the virtually popular place is White Beach. Half of the residents live in a quiet place Manoc-Manoc.

Boracay is a beautiful small island surrounded by coral reefs and located one km north-west of Panay island in Visayas of the Philippines. It is the most popular beach in the country as the most visited tourist spot in the Philippines. Before the middle of 1980s, it was a famous hidden resort but known to limited numbers of sea lovers. Now many tourists visit there from all over the world, America, Europe, korea, Taiwan and so on. The climate from March to June are the summer months in Boracay, with temperatures ranging from 28 to 38 degrees Celsius. November to February bring enjoyable winds, cooler temperatures, and occasional rain showers. July to October are the rainy months. Read More.......

Camiguin island

"Paradise Island of your Imagination"

CAMIGUIN is a small pear-shaped volcanic island with a total land area of 238 sq. kilometers in the north west coast of Mindanao. It lies 10 kilometers off the coast of the Province of Misamis Oriental. Along with the Provinces of Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental and Misamis Oriental, CAMIGUIN forms part of a geopolitical grouping of provinces comprising Region X or Northern Mindanao. In terms of land area, CAMIGUIN is only around 2 percent of Region X.

CAMIGUIN ISLAND is said to be "Born of Fire". It has been known as a volcanic island since it has seven volcanoes unmatched anywhere else in Southeast Asia and one of the volcanoes there has been unpredictably active which is the Mt. Hibok-hibok. Volcanic eruptions and land movements have created this spectacular island full of natural wonders and historical riches. Read More......

Siargao Island

"Hidden Tropical Jewel and the Philippine Surfing Capital"

Surigao del Norte is a medley island in the northeastern tip of Mindanao. A province that has managed to preserve its natural marvel through the years. On the eastern side of the province is Siargao Island, a hidden tropical jewel of the Pacific that hosts one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and home of wave surfing and the famous CLOUD 9, the latest sport and tourist attraction to take the country by storm It is the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. The best known surfing break now with a world reputation of being in the top Surfing Waves in the world, is nick-named "Cloud Nine". But there are literally scores of breaks down this coast, and every time a surfing expedition is mounted in the area, more new breaks are being discovered.

Siargao is a tear-drop shaped island situated 800 kilometers southeast of Manila in the province of Surigao del Norte. It has a land mass of approximately 437 kilometers. It has a land mass of approximately 437 kilometers. The east coast is relatively straight with one deep inlet-Port Pilar with a coastline marked by a succession of reefs, small points and white sandy beaches. There are similar neighboring islands and islets with similar landforms. The reefs and points are excellent for picking up any swell that comes along turning into clean, fast waves. The Island's Pacific-facing reefs are situated on the edge of the Philippine Trench, and the extremely deep offshore waters guarantee the ocean swells have undiluted power when they encounter the many coral and rock reefs, giving Siargao excellent surfing conditions, particularly during the southwest "habagat" monsoon from August to November, when the prevailing wind is offshore. Read More........

Bantayan Island

"Pacific island Dream"

Bantayan island, the shining tropical paradise in Asia is commonly known as an island paradise in Philippines. Tourists as far as Europe fall in love with its fine white sand and crystal clear blue waters. Many of these foreigners even settled down on the island to spend the rest of their lives. They build single-cottage beach houses along the shore but as time went by, construct a couple of new cottages instead to accommodate the growing number of tourists who seeks safe haven on the splendid island paradise.

Two of the main attraction of the island is its crystal-clear waters and it's long stretch of powdery white sand. The stunning sunset will really spice those romantic walks on the beach. One of the reasons the island is famous is its peacefulness, the way a resort should be. Unsaturated beauty and a combination of sweet smiling natives made the island as it is now. Read More.......

Bohol Tourist Spots, Philippines

Out of the 7,107 islands in the Philippines, there is one island that has earned the reputation as the complete travel destination—the island province of Bohol.. Considered as the 10th largest island in the archipelago, this oval shaped island province is located in the heart of the Visayas region. It lies between the provinces of Cebu and Leyte to the northwest and to the northeast respectively.

Chocolate Hills, Bohol, Philippines

Recently, the island of Bohol, has been recognized as the number one tourist destination for a lot of local and foreign tourists in the past five years. This reputation has been gained through the ongoing successful development of varying tourist destination sites by the government; thus, boosting its tourism industry. But even in the previous decades, Bohol has already gained the attention of tourists through the world-famous Chocolate Hills and as well as its white-sand beaches. Read More........

Baguio City Philippines

"Summer Capital of the Philippines"

Baguio City is home to many tourist spots and is a weekend getaway of those living in Metro Manila. Baguio City remains a prime tourist destination area in North Luzon because of its cool climate, fresh, green and peaceful environment unlike other tourist destinations in the Philippines. This makes it a favorite destination especially for those who would like to relax and stay away from the excessive heat of the lowlands and also a favorite venue of seminars and conferences.

Baguio is the midway to the wonders of Northern Luzon. The calm beaches of La Union; the fabled Hundred Islands of Pangasinan; the ancient churches, Spanish influenced houses, historical and cultural relics of Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte and is also the gateway to the Cordilleras where you could find the world famous Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao; the Kabayan mummy caves of Benguet; and the distinct culture and colorful traditions of the tribes of Benguet, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Kalinga, Apayao and Abra. Read More....

Kawasan Falls in Cebu Philippines

Kawasan Falls is actually a series of lovely waterfalls. The first waterfall is the biggest. The scenery gets more rustic/wilder and impressive the further up you go.

From the parking area you'll have to walk about 20 minutes before reaching the first falls — along a rocky, narrow path along the beautiful river. The river is very clean & clear. The river fish can easily be seen as you take it easy and enjoy the walk. Lush tropical trees & plants line the river.

You'll cross 3 small bridges before reaching the falls. Stop in the middle of bridge # 3 & look upstream. It’s a good place for photographs.

Your brief hike brings you to Kawasan Falls, a three-tiered cascade of crystal clear mountain springs. Enjoy a picnic, the lush scenery, tropical forest, and a cool swim. A very lovely experience.

After a 5 - 10 minute trek going up above the first falls, you'll be able to reach the other 3 sub-falls and also the source. Don’t miss them!

The fall areas are very pretty and offers (cold!) fresh water bathing, a Tarzan swing and the opportunity to climb up beside the waterfall and imitate the high divers of Acapulco! The higher up the river valley, the prettier it gets, with places where you must swim up a gorge and clamber over rocks. The area is popular with locals as well as foreigners/visitors, so try to avoid the weekends and holidays otherwise you will share the place with screaming children, BBQ stands and radios! Read More.........

Banaue Rice Terraces Philippines
"Eighth Wonder of the World "

Banaue rice terraces were carved in the mountains of Ifugao Philippines by our ancestors of the Batad Indigenous people. This 2000 year old Banaue rice terraces has also been recognized as one of the "Eighth Wonder of the World". It is the only man made wonder that is sculpted from earth. In 1995, Banaue Rice terraces has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This spectacular creation has been built mostly by hand and minimal only with the use of equipments which shows Ifugaos great craftsmanship and creativity. It is composed of rice fields to provide themselves a source of livelihood in the highlands. The location of Banaue rice terraces is 1, 500 meters or 5, 000 feet above sea level and it covers 10, 630 square kilometers about 4, 000 square miles of teh mountainside. This wonder has been fully maintained by an ancient irrigation system from the rainforest above the terraces. This place is greatly known as well as a great tourist destination in the Philippines because aside from its stairway design heading to the sky, there are a lot of hiking trails in the area. It is located north of Manila at Cordillera Mountain Province. If Banaue rice terraces will be connected end to end, the length is ten times longer than the Great Wall of China. Read More........

2nd Magsaysay Bridge
"A landmark in Butuan City"

So much to cheers to all Butuanon when the 2nd Magsaysay Bridge was inaugurated and open in public last April 30, 2007. After a decade of waiting that another bridge will be constructed to support the voluminous traffic in the aging 1st Magsaysay Bridge, finally became a reality, the construction of the 2nd Magsaysay Bridge.

The aging 1st Magsaysay Bridge that was built in 1950's always undergoes major renovation for years. This prompts me to become uneasy person as I passed by to the center of the bridge. But this old bridge was proving to be mightier than a mighty Agusan River because it lives there for years. Read More......

The Pearl Farm & Costa Marina Samal Island in Davao

If your looking for a great destination island hopping escape in Southern Philippines, Then you are looking for a world class destination getaway in Davao. The Pearl Farm Beach Resort in Samal Island Davao is one of the popular and great destination for island hopping in Southern Philippines. Read More..........

Ering Clan Logo

2008-11-16T10:10:00.000-08:00

Vodafone UK Launches Exclusive BlackBerry Storm

2008-11-07T22:37:00.000-08:00

UK : The highly anticipated Blackberry® Storm 9500, the first ever touch-screen BlackBerry smartphone, purpose built exclusively for Vodafone, will be available to buy from 14th November. Available on a range of high value price-plans, the device offers consumers and business customers easy access to voice and email, a range of social media applications, multimedia content, satellite navigation and many other services on the move.

Customers who want to be the first in the UK to have a BlackBerry Storm can pre-order in Vodafone stores, online at www.vodafone.co.uk/storm and telesales, and account managers for our business customers from November 14. It will also be available for sale through Vodafone’s retail partner Phones 4U in store and online.

“We know customers are excited about the Storm and the early pre-orders really emphasise this. We continue to take orders and are excited that customers are responding so enthusiastically,” commented Ian Shepherd, consumer director, Vodafone UK. “Our customers told us that they wanted a single phone that would give them the most secure, reliable email and messaging experience possible combined with all the desirable smartphone features, and at a price that’s affordable. The BlackBerry Storm has delivered all of this and more and will give our customers incredible power in their hands to make the most of now.”

BlackBerry Storm features:

Coming in a sleek and elegant black design, the BlackBerry Storm smartphone brings together messaging services including email, SMS and MMS in a single in-box and alerts from social networks. It also offers superb sound quality and a 3.2 MP camera with video capabilities that exploit the screen’s stunning clarity to deliver advanced multi-media performance coupled with Vodafone’s fast and reliable mobile broadband network.

The BlackBerry Storm smartphone, comes with an enhanced high performance browser which delivers users a high speed web browsing experience, with desktop-style depiction in either portrait or landscape view. The new user interface combines the familiar dedicated "menu" and "escape" keys common to BlackBerry smartphones and adds support for multi-touches, taps and slides allowing the user to easily highlight, scroll, pan and zoom, making navigation fast, easy and intuitive.

The uniquely tactile 3.25” screen gives users a variety of different sense experiences. Despite its flat surface, users feel the sensation of actually pressing down on virtual keys which also light up when touched. This makes it quick and easy to type texts and emails as well as navigate through the phone’s functions. Customers will also have the choice of using a full QWERTY, SureType® or multi-tap keyboard.

By excluding the traditional physical keyboard, more space has been dedicated to the high resolution colour screen, allowing customers to display multi-media content and comfortably view attachments as well as read and edit documents.

The ground-breaking screen with its 480 x 360 pixel resolution display switches from portrait mode to landscape mode as the handset is rotated, while automatically changing the format of the keyboard from multi-tap or RIM’s SureType® to full QWERTY*. A wide range of songs and full length videos can be downloaded and enjoyed with the stunning clarity of the smartphone’s screen and its incredible, high quality audio.

The BlackBerry Storm retains the full functionality and security features of the BlackBerry platform but is also ideal for avid Facebook, MySpace and YouTube users, while Flickr fans will love the ease and speed of directly uploading their pictures seconds after taking them.

Customers can access all Vodafone’s entertainment and information services including Vodafone Music, Google Maps and Find&Go navigation, and the Vodafone live! portal, whilst also benefiting from a removable battery with excellent talk and standby time, and up to 16GB of exchangeable memory.

The BlackBerry Storm will be available from next month through Vodafone stores as well as independent outlets and online. Full pricing details will be available in the coming weeks.

* Virtual keyboards are also available in AZERTY, QWERTZ and other configurations to support different language groups.

Orange Eee PC With Embedded 3G

2008-11-07T22:36:00.001-08:00

UK : Orange announced a new edition to its ‘connected laptop’ range. Following the huge popularity of its initial offering launched in August, Orange is now upgrading its consumer offer to make it even easier for consumers to get online by launching the Eee PC 901 ( inset ) with embedded 3G connectivity.

Available from mid-November, the new ultra portable Eee PC comes in a choice of either black or pink and features Intel’s Atom processor. What’s more, the Eee PC 901 comes equipped with five hours of battery life, an integrated webcam, and features an 8.9" compact design, weighing in at just 1.1kg - making it the ultimate portable computing experience.

Francois Mahieu, Director of Devices, Orange UK said: "By introducing the Eee PC 901 with integrated connectivity, we’re now making it even easier for customers to purchase a flexible solution that allows them to access the internet when they are out and about. As a result, we strongly believe this will be one of the most popular device offers in the market place this Christmas.”

With the largest integrated mobile data network in the UK, this is the second package in the company’s consumer connected laptop product line, with Orange also offering a range of connected laptops for business customers. The company plans to evolve its offerings over time to include fixed line broadband and an increased laptop range.

The consumer offer will be available from Orange shops, via telesales and the Orange web site at www.orange.co.uk/shop

Price £25 per month
Laptop ASUS Eee PC 901 16G Flash Memory with embedded 3G SIM
Internet Everywhere tariff

UK data allowance: 3GB

UK: 100 texts from laptop

Contract: 24 month contract

Official FHM 2008 100 Sexiest Women in the Philippines

2008-11-07T22:33:00.000-08:00

KaPuso Vs. KaPamilya

100 Most Beautiful Pinays of 2008

2008-11-07T22:31:00.000-08:00

They are most admired not just beause of physical appearance but inner beauty as well. They are voted as the fairest women of the country.

We bring you the final results of our fearless and exclusive poll - 100 Most Beautiful Pinays of 2008!

TOP 10

Rank	Name of Celebrity	Prelims	Semis	Finals	Total
1	Angel Locsin	1680	1451	1932	5063
2	Marian Rivera	1968	1169	1903	5040
3	Sarah Geronimo	1872	843	676	3391
4	Anne Curtis	1611	91	189	1891
5	KC Concepcion	1232	171	321	1724
6	Kim Chiu	1094	116	577	1787
7	Heart Evangelista	695	536	170	1401
8	Maja Salvador	947	239	85	1271
9	Katrina Halili	710	152	114	976
10	Bea Alonzo	631	98	113	842

11. Toni Gonzaga
12. Iza Calzado
13. Claudine Barretto
14. Judy Ann Santos
15. Valerie Concepcion
16. Nikki Gil
17. Roxanne Guinoo
18. Jennylyn Mercado
19. Iya Villania
20. Gaby dela Merced
21. Ruffa Guttierez
22. Angelica Panganiban
23. Shaina Magdayao
24. Mariel Rodriguez
25. Kristine Hermosa
26. Bianca Gonzalez
27. Ehra Madrigal
28. Nadine Samonte
29. Iwa Moto
30. Regine Angeles
31. Jewel Mische
32. Kyla
33. Riza Santos
34. Lucy Torres-Gomez
35. Camille Prats
36. Precious Lara Quigaman
37. Regine Velasquez
38. Diana Zubiri
39. Alessandra de Rossi
40. Melissa Ricks
41. Cristine Reyes
42. Rhian Ramos
43. Bianca King
44. Mirriam Quiambao
45. Kris Bernal
46. Yasmien Kurdi
47. Gretchen Barretto
48. Carmina Villaroel
49. Glaiza de Castro
50. Pauleen Luna
51. Sheena Halili
52. Michelle Madrigal
53. Rufa Mae Quinto
54. Jennica Garcia
55. Maggie Wilson
56. Yeng Constantino
57. Angelika dela Cruz
58. Dawn Zulueta
59. Erich Gonzalez
60. Kris Aquino
61. Empress Schuck
62. Dimples Romana
63. Rachelle Ann Go
64. Maxene Magalona
65. Sunshine Dizon
66. Bubbles Paraiso
67. Wendy Valdez
68. Donita Rose
69. Alex Gonzaga
70. Georgina Wilson
71. Isabel Oli
72. Jackie Rice
73. Amanda Griffin
74. Bangs Garcia
75. Beatriz Saw
76. Charlene Gonzalez
77. Megan Young
78. Ryza Cenon
79. Kitchie Nadal
80. Pia Guanio
81. Francine Prieto
82. Cindy Kurleto
83. Ara Mina
84. Jean Garcia
85. Bunny Malunda
86. Lea Salonga
87. Jayann Bautista
88. Jodi Sta. Maria
89. Tanya Garcia
90. Carlene Aguilar
91. Nicole Uysiuseng
92. Phoemela Barranda
93. Janina San Miguel
94. Rochelle Panganiban
95. Cris Pastro
96. Angel Aquino
97. Jolina Magdangal
98. Precious Adona
99. Rica Peralejo
100. Krista Ranillo

Jun Auto Evo X - The Underdog

2008-11-06T07:45:00.000-08:00

Jun Auto Evo X: Better Than The New GT-R

Photography by Luke Munnell

writer: RC Faderoga

The most anticipated car this year is undoubtedly the Nissan GT-R. It's dramatically redesigned, a virtual newcomer to the stateside market, and sets off more commercial appeal than pictures of Kim Kardashian in a thong bikini. But it won't be the fastest car on the track, according to Susumu Koyama, the legendary tuner and vice president of JUN Auto (whose full interview was in the May '08 issue of 2NR.) He believes, with all his wisdom and proven track record, that another car will take the reins as the most tunable ride for 2008 and will hands-down beat the GT-R on any circuit. That car is the second most anticipated to arrive in the states, the '08 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X.

Already famous for its underdog-like qualities, what with its closest competitor, the Subaru WRX STI, stealing the spotlight from the World Rally Championships and the X Games, the long line of Lancer Evolutions is more of a crowd favorite long shot than a presidential candidate who doesn't believe in evolution; the scientific kind anyway-nice try, Mike Huckabee. Despite being in production since 1992 and huge amounts of street cred, the EVO continues to unjustifiably get placed second in every category under the sport-compact all-wheel-drive class garnering no major awards. As the proverbial automotive McLovin, the EVO doesn't get its much-deserved respect.

But we're not here to focus on any of the EVO's shortcomings. We're not going to compare it to the STI, or even the GT-R. We're here to investigate why Koyama-san held so much confidence for this beloved little car that could. Let's start at the beginning, the basics if you will. The EVO X has an all-new chassis platform, an equally new engine, and an entire hardware upgrade in the all-wheel-drive department.

The exterior is finally more proportioned and better groomed than the previous nine generations, with its projector-beam headlights, European-style LED taillights, and a more bold front end design; featuring an angry looking intake and grille-mounted intercooler. The new hood is more aerodynamically fit for the 21st century and the rear wing is no longer obnoxiously loud. Granted, it still sits high off the rear trunk, but doesn't give off the shopping cart feel.

Underhood, the age-old 4G63 motor is gone and in it's place sits a brand new inline-four with more power, aluminum block construction, free-revving performance, and a revamped dual MIVEC variable-valve-timing technology. Called the 4B11 (read the sidebar for technical specifications), the new EVO X motor comes with an available six-speed and dual-clutch transmission that can rock the clock out of any track, especially with it's steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters... But Koyama-san can't be swayed from the optional five-speed manual.

The chassis will be controlled by the new Super All-Wheel Control technology, which includes the active center differential, yaw control, and stability control previously found in the EVO IX. High-tech innovation presents itself in active steering for quicker response, active braking control, and active suspension dampening, all of which make the changes on the EVO X as dramatic as a post-op tranny. And the changes that JUN Auto made to their EVO X are the necessary face makeup, clothing, and estrogen shots to make it look sexy and sweet.

JUN Auto's plans for the EVO X platform aren't even in line with what the Mitsubishi engineers originally had in mind. For example, they're converting Kumakubo from Team Orange's new EVO from the all-wheel-drive format to rear-wheel drive (RWD) for drifting, a conceivably hard process that will take them the rest of the year to complete. However, a RWD conversion isn't unprecedented for JUN, seeing that they drifted a RWD Team Orange Subaru Impreza for the past couple of years. "The Impreza was successful in a lot of the drifting tracks," Susumu said, "but that won't necessarily translate to the future success of this EVO X. So we are doing a whole lot of testing on it to work out the kinks."

The kinks they've managed to smooth out are shown in this EVO X. They've set the engine's assurances in Trust, part of the GReddy family, using its air cleaner, intercooler piping, blow-off valve, and boost controller. Spitting out the spent turbo air into competitors faces is a Trust titanium muffler and JUN Sport prototype catalyzer.

To compete with drifting's best around the bends, JUN Auto used a set of Zeal Super Function R coilovers and Endless Racing brakes to prevent the car from smashing into hapless media photographers scattered around the track.

Helping the EVO X traverse the corners with blinding speed, they called upon a set of quality Advan Racing RZ wheels, measuring 19x10 inches on all four corners, wrapped in 265/30-19 Advan tires, which elegantly complement the EVO's sexy exterior.

The chassis is adorned with JUN Auto's finest aerodynamic products. Helping the redesigned front end look more menacing, a JUN lip spoiler and front diffuser are used to defend against the turbulent winds during time attack. The rear features a Sigma Automotive Racing Development (SARD) GT wing and a JUN Auto rear diffuser to balance out the already nimble EVO X. And a JUN Auto car wouldn't be complete without a striking paintjob and well-placed body graphics. In this case, JUN Auto decided to go yellow with green highlights-the company's signature colors.

So with all these modifications, as mild as they are, why would Koyama-san still think that the EVO X will reign supreme? "The GT-R is a very difficult car to tune. Nissan is trying to over manage and control everything." he explained, "They make you sign a contract saying that you won't modify the car. Plus, with its weight and speed limitations, it'll be hard to tune. The EVO X is ready to go from the production line to any respectable tuning shop." But the EVO X isn't a super car and one thing is certain: The EVO X maybe beneath the GT-R in hype, but that doesn't mean it's beneath it in potential.

ENGINE CODE	4g63	4B11
ENGINE TYPE	2.0l, belt-driven i-4	2.0l chain-driven i-4
VALVE TRAIN	DoHC, 16-valve (roller rocker )miveC (intake only)	DoHC, 16-valve (direct-acting) miveC
DISPLACEMENT (CU IN/CC)	121.9/1997	122/1998
BORE X STROKE (IN)	85.0 x 88.0mm	86.0 x 86.0mm
COMPRESSION RATIO	8.8:1	9.0:1
HORSEPOWER (BHP)	286 @ 6,500 rpm	291 @ 6,500 rpm
TORQUE	289 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm	300 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
ENGINE BLOCK	Cast-iron	aluminum
CYLINDER HEADS	aluminum	aluminum
REDLINE RPM	7,000 rpm	7,000 rpm
FUEL SYSTEM	ECI-MULTI electronic fuel injection	MPI
ENGINE OIL CAPACITY (QT/L)	4.8 / 4.5 (filter: +0.3qt; cooler: +0.3qt)	5.0/4.8 (filter: + 0.3 qt; cooler: + 0.5 qt.)

'08 Mitsubishi Evolution X
Output 374 hp at 7,000 rpm

Engine Trust air cleaner, intercooler pipe fitting, blow-off valve, boost controller, titanium muffler; JUN Reinforced Actuator (prototype), sport catalyzer (prototype); Odyssey battery B-spec II

Drivetrain N/A

Suspension Zeal Super Function R coilovers

Wheels/Tires Yokohama Advan Racing RZ 10.0J-19 + 35 (front and rear); Yokohama Advan 19 inch 265/30-19 (front and rear)

Brakes Endless Racing 6 and 4

Exterior JUN lip spoiler, original racing mirrors, front diffuser, rear diffuser; SARD GT wing Fuji-Spec M; Body Graphic Art Factory

Interior Bride seats; Works Bell RAFIX-II steering wheel; Trust water temp, oil temp, oil pressure mete

1999 Lexus GS400 - Grand Triumph

2008-11-06T07:31:00.000-08:00

Being A Champion Doesn't Mean You Have To Be Alone

writer: RC Faderoga
photographer: Chris Reno

Kanye West's Graduation was a jam-knockin' album that quickly became my favorite of last year. It continues to get heavy rotation inside my car's CD changer, and it's a couple more plays from being cataclysmically ruined forever. This not only prompted me to buy an iPod adapter like everyone else in the 21st century, but it also made me the preeminent expert in quoting lyrics from this musical tour de force.

One of my favorites comes from "The Glory" track: "The fur is Hermes shit that you don't floss/The Goyard so hard, think I'm Hugo's Boss/Why I gotta ask what the two-door cost/House on the hills two doors from Tracey Ross." These were the four bars that led me to conclude that if Kanye were a tuner, his affinity for fashion, luxury, and downright boasting would fit right in with this year's hottest tuning trend, the VIP style.

Taken straight from the streets of Tokyo, the VIP style is directly linked to the finger amputating techniques of the Yakuza mafia, which opposed using European sedans for fear of getting targeted by the police and rival gangs. Instead they modified Japanese luxury cars to avoid detection, using standards like large-diameter wheels with broad-faced designs, low offsets that sit flush with the fender, protruding exhaust tips, full body kits that emphasize the front lip, and the use of basic paint colors like black or white. These Japanese luxury rides include the Nissan President, Toyota Celsior, Nissan Laurel, and the Toyota Aristo-better known to Americans as the Lexus GS, and Johhny Tran's main project for the past year.

Johnny is the owner of this '99 Lexus GS400, which not only emulates the VIP style to a tee, but also raises the bar for those who are thinking of getting into the trend. "This car is the perfect example of having the right amount of speed, sound, looks, and comfort in a VIP vehicle," he explained, "because after all, too much of one thing defeats the whole purpose of being comfortable and luxurious." He also added that patience and a pretty big wallet are needed to achieve such a feat of balancing the VIP characteristics. He has both, and the financial requirement is clearly articulated through the profoundly lavish exterior of his VIP GS400.

Using a genuine Junction Produce body kit, including the bumpers, side skirts and rear wing, Johnny added a Ugo roof spoiler and JDM rain guards, chrome door handles and a trunk bar. To highlight the gleaming white paintjob, he painted the roof and part of the trunk black. Lowered to touch the ground, the chassis sits above a set of 20-inch Fabulous Profounds with an offset of +23 in the front and +29 in the back. Falken FK-452 tires stretch around these ridiculously deep dished wheels that tuck perfectly underneath the fenders. These tires avoid tragically rubbing against the car through the use of an Air Runner suspension kit with an eight-valve electric solenoid upgrade-the choice system for VIP cars in Japan.

Inside, the cabin remains stock like most VIP-style vehicles, but Johnny made sure the music came through deep and loud, with a sound system that is sure to bring anyone closer to deafness. Using a set of Digital Designs amplifiers, the speakers made by the same company thump perfectly throughout the interior like a world-class sound hall. The most telling feature that reveals the car's melodic prowess is the 12-inch subwoofer with a carbon-fiber dust cap sitting saliently in the trunk.

Naturally, the sound system's only auditory rival is the 2JZGTE engine underhood. Supported by an HKS SSQV blow-off valve and GReddy M-Spec intercooler, the 3.0L inline-six turbo motor produces upwards of 330 hp at the wheels using a stock transmission. Johnny and his friends did all the engine modifications since he's had terrible experiences with going to shops. "When I first started getting into cars, I hired this mechanic to build my motor," he said. "He was supposedly the best from California, but he ended up costing me a lot of money since the engine he built blew up three times. Now I just do everything myself."

The most intriguing detail behind this GS400 was Johnny's motivation to buy the car in the first place: "My previous car was a Mazda RX-7 and I was tired of being cooped up in it like a coffin and not being able to take my friends out. So I wanted a car that I could load up with a bunch of my friends and still be comfy and look luxurious." Despite the GS400's extravagance, high-fashion, and exaggeration, Johnny can't enjoy the glory that Kanye rapped about, that which pretty much sums up the tuning subculture, without sharing it with his friends-that is how he defines VIP style.

'99 Lexus GS400

Output:

330 whp at 6,000 rpm; 350 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm

Engine

2JZ-GTE VVTi turbo engine swap; HKS blow-off valve; GReddy M-Spec intercooler and piping, boost controller; Blitz SBC i-D; custom downpipe; Sard intake; NGK spark plugs

Drivetrain

'01 2JZ-GTE transmission

Suspension

Air Runner kit, eight-valve solenoid

Wheels/Tires

Fabulous Profound wheels (20x9 +23 offset front, 20x10.5 +29 offset rear); Falken tires FK452 (235/30-20 front and 255/30-20 rear)

Brakes

Tom's four-piston caliper; Project Mu's rotors

Exterior

Junction Produce front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper, rear wing; Ugo roof spoiler; JDM rain guards, chrome door handles, chrome trunk bar, chrome grille; Underground Graphics vinyl

Interior

Pioneer AVIC-D3 head unit; Digital Designs S4 amplifier, M2A amplifier, DDC speakers, DD3512 subwoofers; Xstatic BatCap 2000

Conflicting Conditions - 2008 Nissan R35 GT-R

2008-11-06T07:25:00.000-08:00

Top Secret Reveals Just A Little Underhood On Their 2008 Nissan R35 GT-R

Photography by Luke Munnell

writer: RC Faderoga

The Nissan GT-R shown here is subtle. Sure, it's one of the most anticipated cars to come out of the automotive world in recent memory. And, yes, that's definitely a Top Secret sticker splayed on the side doors-a sign that it's built by one of the most decorated tuners in all of Japan. Ignore, for a moment, the burly front fender deltoids, the lowered ground-shaking stance and the fact that it's essentially a Top Secret Nissan GT-R, and there is something missing from the line of vision. Obviously, Top Secret's signature gold and white markings aren't present, but that's not the much-needed DNA evidence to put the perp in jail. Those subtle nuances are, indeed, invisible to the naked eye because, for one, in this photo of the GT-R you don't get a look underhood. Needless to say that the tired old phrase, "Never judge a book by its cover," has never been so true.

Let's start at the beginning; the Nissan GT-R is the latest version from the famous line of Nissan Skylines that we all adore and all want inside our garages. Naturally, there are some changes with this new version. The GT-R was built with speed, efficiency and safety at high performance in mind, thus allowing the normal driver to immediately feel like Michael Schumacher at the gripping of the steering wheel. With the GT-R maximizing grip and airflow, it's highly possible to actually drive like one of the best drivers in the world, despite road and climate conditions. Also, the entire car is built with a balanced mix of carbon-fiber, aluminum and steel, and the engine is assembled by a single craftsman, which is pretty major considering all the work that had to be done. It features the first independent transaxle all-wheel-drive system, allowing superior weight balance and a dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifting for direct control. All in all, it's something we've all been expecting from Nissan's GT-R brand, and we can't wait to see one on the road in our very own backyard-better known as the United States.

Here comes the subtlety. During our visit to the Tokyo Auto Salon earlier this year, we spotted many GT-Rs, but none were more eye-catching than Top Secret's. Out of approximately seven GT-Rs on display, Top Secret was the best to highlight the super-car's high-performance aerodynamics and style. It was practically a no-brainer to pick it for a 2NR full feature. But, unlike the cars previously featured, this one is as close to stock as mechanically possible. There were no insane twin turbo setups, no shiny intercooler piping and finding anything remotely aftermarket was as hard as memorizing the VIN numbers and reciting them backwards. Seriously, we were all surprised. We couldn't believe Top Secret put a stock GT-R on the Tokyo Auto Salon floor and actually put their label on it.

So, after doing some research in and around Tokyo, other than finding the weird gadgets and electronics that the Japanese are known for, we found JUN, another respectable tuner shop that shed some light on this whole mess. According to them, Nissan is proactively preventing anyone that has the itch from modifying their beloved GT-R, which pretty much includes everyone who loves cars. Apparently, every R35 owner needs to sign a contract that implicates a void of warranty should any aftermarket modifications be made. Any minor modifications can throw the codes in the ECU; the car is also limited to 180 kph (112 mph). The most disturbing factoid is that a data logger is located somewhere in the vehicle; it stores speed, rpm, distance and other potentially pertinent information-similar to an airplane's black box.

As of yet, none of the information was confirmed by Nissan and we're not sure if the same rules would apply to USDM versions, but if true, it would only mean that every tuner shop would be hiring the best nerds out there to hack into this system. If anyone can make a fool out of Nissan by getting inside that impenetrable ECU, it would be Top Secret. After all, if they can make this GT-R so nice on the outside, they can make it equally fresh on the inside. Top Secret is known for turning supercars into very super-major rides with all the toppings, and a side order of coffee. It's really amazing, the horsepower they've managed to pull out of cars like the Toyota Supra and the early model Nissan Skylines. It's even equally amazing how sexy they make all their cars look.

The body kit used on this GT-R is made by Top Secret, featuring a carbon-fiber front lip, carbon-fiber front grille and an aero catch. These aero modifications may be trivial to any other stock car, but on a car that's already producing 525 hp at 6,500 rpm out of the box, these changes can make a huge difference at high speeds. The only engine modifications that Top Secret managed to put in their GT-R was their own Super Premium exhaust system and an HKS EVC, which surprisingly, didn't force the factory ECU into shutdown mode. They lowered the car using a combined set of Top Secret dampers and Swift springs. This system rides on top of a set of 20-inch Volk Racing GT-C wheels, wrapped in Bridgestone RE070 tires. The only upgrade inside are the Takata harnesses, which look somewhat weird resting on the factory seats. But it seems the overall interior doesn't need much modifying, unless you plan to make it a full-out race car.

It's for these reasons that we call this ride subtle. The GT-R's signature technology and overall high-performance attitude is still noticeable, and with the inclusion of some Top Secret science and style, the potential of the GT-R has never been more captivating. It'll be interesting to see what the future holds for this car, and we're sure that Nissan's restrictions are mere speed bumps on the road ahead.

2008 Nissan GT-R
Output 525 hp at 6,500 rpm
Engine Top Secret Super Premium exhaust system, HKS EVC
Drivetrain Stock
Suspension Top Secret Grade Damper, Swift springs
Wheels/Tires 20x9.5 and 20x10.5 Volk Racing GT-C with Bridgestone RE070 tires 255/45-20 and 285/40-20
Brakes Stock
Exterior Top Secret carbon-fiber front lip, front grille, and aero catch
Interior Takata harnesses

Name.
Top Secret

Age.
Old Enough To Be Your Uncle

Hometown.
Tokyo, Japan

Occupation.
Tuner Shop

Hobbies.
Currently Attempting To Figure Out The New Nissan Gt-R

Build Time.
In Progress

Feedback.
Usa@Topsecretjpn.Com

1999 Lexus GS400 - Grand Triumph

2008-11-06T07:15:00.000-08:00

Being A Champion Doesn't Mean You Have To Be Alone

writer: RC Faderoga
photographer: Chris Reno

'99 Lexus GS400

Output:

330 whp at 6,000 rpm; 350 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm

Engine

2JZ-GTE VVTi turbo engine swap; HKS blow-off valve; GReddy M-Spec intercooler and piping, boost controller; Blitz SBC i-D; custom downpipe; Sard intake; NGK spark plugs

Drivetrain

'01 2JZ-GTE transmission

Suspension

Air Runner kit, eight-valve solenoid

Wheels/Tires

Fabulous Profound wheels (20x9 +23 offset front, 20x10.5 +29 offset rear); Falken tires FK452 (235/30-20 front and 255/30-20 rear)

Brakes

Tom's four-piston caliper; Project Mu's rotors

Exterior

Junction Produce front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper, rear wing; Ugo roof spoiler; JDM rain guards, chrome door handles, chrome trunk bar, chrome grille; Underground Graphics vinyl

Interior

Pioneer AVIC-D3 head unit; Digital Designs S4 amplifier, M2A amplifier, DDC speakers, DD3512 subwoofers; Xstatic BatCap 2000

Conflicting Conditions - 2008 Nissan R35 GT-R

2008-11-06T03:39:00.000-08:00

Top Secret Reveals Just A Little Underhood On Their 2008 Nissan R35 GT-R

Photography by Luke Munnell

writer: RC Faderoga

Name.
Top Secret

Age.
Old Enough To Be Your Uncle

Hometown.
Tokyo, Japan

Occupation.
Tuner Shop

Hobbies.
Currently Attempting To Figure Out The New Nissan Gt-R

Build Time.
In Progress

Feedback.
Usa@Topsecretjpn.Com

2007 Nissan 350Z - High Revolution

2008-11-06T03:34:00.000-08:00

Greddy's Widebody Twin Turbo '07 350z Is Perfect For Both Real And Virtual Worlds

writer: RC Faderoga
photographer: Eric Kieu

I still remember the first time that I raced one of the four Nissan Skylines I've owned. It was my white R33 fitted with a Nismo exhaust and Ray's wheels; it flew past the competitors with lightning speed around the short bends of Deep Forest Raceway. I beat all of them with minutes to spare despite the fact I drove it with an automatic transmission; there wasn't even a scratch or dent on my car. I washed it afterwards, took a practice lap around Apricot Hill, parked it in my garage and called it a night. Granted, this all took place within the safe confines of the virtual world, but it was a fond memory, nonetheless, placed deep inside my mind because it was also the first time I played Gran Turismo nearly 10 years ago on the original PlayStation.

I'm sure we all have memories about this racing game, the emotions we felt sitting behind the steering wheels of Japanese cars, some of which we owned but most of the time wished we owned, much less had ever seen before. It was the game that revolutionized video games, and more importantly, the real-life tuner industry. It set off an unbridled yearning to modify, collect and own the cars we played. And it's all owed to the godly hands of Gran Turismo creator, Kazunori Yamauchi.

Every year at the SEMA Show, Kazunori hands down the Gran Turismo Awards, which honor the best customized vehicles in various categories, including Hot Rod, Domestic, and of course, Japanese Import. The grand prize is Best in Show, which immortalizes a vehicle in a future Gran Turismo video game for everyone to drool over and drive. GReddy's '07 Nissan 350Z, which is laid across these pages, didn't win that coveted award but it did place First in the Japanese Import category, and in our book, that's reason enough to place it on the cover. After all, there has to be a reason why it was picked to win the award, competing with a pool of the best tuner vehicles in the country.

Perhaps it was chosen because it's arguably one of the cleanest Z33s to pound the pavements thus far. Or maybe it's the mob of GReddy's quality products placed underhood that makes it oh-so-fresh. But really what sets it apart from the rest of the group is the main source of power resting comfortably in the engine bay, the first twinturbo production kit ever made for the new VQ35HR V-6 engine that can potentially push this car upwards of 700 hp. This TD05H-18G twin-turbo kit can be bolted on and is sold with all the necessary parts like manifold, downpipe adapter, piping hardware and heatshields. GReddy designs their turbos with substantial room at their efficiency ranges, giving the tuner the option to increase power levels. They base their engineering on completely stock engines, so they provide instant horsepower gains while maintaining drivability. This concept bodes well for the VQ35HR engine, which is still fairly new in terms of manufacturing aftermarket products.

The VQ35HR is an updated version of the 350's previous powerplant with a stronger block, a higher rev limit and compression ratio, a twin ram-air intake, and variable exhaust camshaft timing. It boasts a stock 306 hp and has a broader range of usable torque, with 90 percent of its 268 lb-ft coming from the 2,000 to 7,000 rpm range. Nissan says the HR in the engine's moniker stands for "high response" and "high revolution," both of which are fitting for the 350Z's sporty feel and for the dozens of aftermarket companies vying to be the first to completely modify the engine.

With only eight weeks before its grand unveiling at the SEmA Show, GReddy worked nonstop to build on this next evolution of the VQ engine. They learned all the new details that came with the engine and the '07 Nissan 350Z, including placement and tuning differences. "This is just the beginning and sort of a setup before we move onto the '09 Nissan GTR and the next evolution of VR38 engines," said mike Chung, planning manager at GReddy. So if this 350Z is merely a start, a GReddy-built GT-R is certain to be a sure-shot hit.

Aside from the massive twin turbos with cast manifold and Type-T wastegates headlining the main stage, GReddy also planted a Type 29 Spec-R front mounted intercooler kit and Airinx AY-mB air intakes to provide efficient air flow circulation. They installed a 70mm turbo Ti-C exhaust system to remove the unwanted air and let their e-manage Ultimate ECU to govern the inner workings of the engine. The internals of the sturdier block include GReddy pistons, connecting rods and piston rings, while GReddy camshafts and L iridium spark plugs take control above; all of which help the bolt-on turbo kit work fluidly within the system. "All the products we develop for this vehicle should make their way to becoming bolt-on products," explained mike. "Once all the hard work of prototyping and tuning is done, production can begin to offer proven products at affordable prices."

GReddy products do not end in the engine bay. The widebody kit is courtesy of GReddy's GRacer over fender SPL model, which is flared close to the factory settings but built slightly more aggressive to fit the wheels and create a meaner stance. It's a seven-piece body kit originally planned to be a custom one-off, but Greddy decided to place it in production because of the popu-larity it garnered at the SEMA show. Painted in OEM Pikes Peak White and covered in Greddy D1 original graphics by Vinyl mayhem, the widebody kit also comes with a rear wing that sits low on the trunk and protrudes enough to collect the proverbial double takes.

Under the chassis is a set of 20-inch Rays Engineering Gram Light wheels, 9.5 inches wide in the front and 10.5 inches in the rear, wrapped in gummy Nitto Invo tires and around GReddy 380mm and 330mm rotors. Gold Volk Racing GT-Fs are used on the track.

Inside the cabin is a pair of blue Bride seats, the Gias model on the driver side and the Stradia on the passenger, matched with Bride Low max rear seats, which complement the overall scheme of blue and white.

Though this complete setup would be perfect to be a special model in Gran Turismo, GReddy is just proud to be the Japanese Import winner of the Gran Turismo Awards. To them, there's nothing like being picked by Yamauchi, the man who fueled the tuning fire that engulfs our lives on a daily basis. It's a feat that GReddy will show off in 2008 and use as inspiration to build the much-anticipated Nissan GT-R, which they hope will fare so well at next year's event. Seeing that they did so well with the '07 350Z, the chance of winning Best in Show doesn't seem so far fetched.

Tweaks
Output 450 whp 700 plus expected at next tune

Engine
GReddy (pistons and rings, rods, camshafts, valves, valve springs, intake manifold, oil pan) cast turbo manifold, TD05H-18G (x2), Type-T wastegate, E-manage Ultimate, PRofec-B Spec2 boost controller, GREx 13-row oil cooler with thermostat, aluminum radiator with pipe kit, radiator hoses, aluminum diversion panels, Type-29 spec-R HG intercooler, aluminum intercooler piping, dual Airinx AY-mB intakes, Turbo Ti-C 70mm dual exhaust, Five Axis dry carbon engine cover

Drivetrain
OS Giken LSD, clutch

Suspension
GReddy Type-S suspension kit

Wheels/Tires
R57-GT Gram Lights rims (20x9.5 front; 20x10.5 rear); Nitto Invo tires (225/30/20 front; 285/30/20 rear). Gold Volk racing GT-F wheels for the track.

Brakes
GReddy 380mm rotor with 8-piston (front), 330mm rotor with 4-piston kit (rear); GReddy/ Earl's stainless lines

Exterior
GReddy Over-Fender SPL body kit (front bumper, rear bumper, side skirts, over fenders, rear wing); OEm Pike's Peak White paint; Greddy D1 vinyl graphics

Interior
GReddy SuperLight shift knob; Bride Gias (driver) and Stradia (passenger) seats; Bride Lox max rear seats

Electronics
GReddy 60mm SmI with data-link

2002 Subaru Impreza WRX - Pride & Perfection

2008-11-06T03:30:00.000-08:00

Joseph Cruz's 2002 Wrx Goes From Track To Showroom Without Skipping A Beat

writer: RC Faderoga
photographer: Eric Kieu

The year 2002 saw an automotive market saturated with cars aimed to fulfill the needs of the teen and young adult demographic; cars were produced ready for modification and marketed as "cool, independent and fun."

Though the industry was finally on the right track, giving dues to its young consumers, it was a hard sell, what with a failing economy and an all-out war. That year would've been one of the bleakest for the industry if it weren't for Subaru finally entering its WRX into the U.S. market. The idea of having a turbocharged four-door sedan powered equally on all four wheels not only put the market in general on notice, but also placed the tuning industry on its knees begging for more.

One of the many caught up in the Dub-Rex mix was young Joseph Cruz, who immediately fell in love with the four-wheel-drive monster the same way everyone who purchased it did: Through the World Rally Championship (WRC). After watching the WRX race on the banks of the most dangerous terrains in Europe, fly through the air and land on a sea of shallow mud to slide across a turn inches away from screaming fans of the WRC, Joseph went straight into the Subaru dealership and picked out an '02 WRX that suited his tastes.

The '02 Impreza WRX ran an impressive 227 hp and 217 lb-ft of torque out of the production lines, which more or less beat every competitor in its class. Its closest threat, the Acura Integra Type-R, didn't even come close to what the last generation WRX featured in almost every aspect. With the EJ20 engine powered by a Mitsubishi TD04-13T turbocharger unit-which was only on the U.S. spec versions-the WRX was boosting a healthy 13.5psi andfeatures 16-inch wheels, 2-piston/1-piston front and rear brakes and a viscous coupling type LSD. It weighed an average 3,085 pounds and boasted a 45-to-55 power ratio between the front and rear axles. All in all, the WRX was something the U.S. market had never seen before and became a mainstay in almost every list of Top 10 Cars of that year.

That's why when Joseph finally decided to modify his WRX, he made sure he did it correctly. For one, he didn't want to disappoint his teammates at Team Sadistic, and he ultimately didn't want to sully the pride behind owning a WRX. He knew the importance of properly fixing up cars; having modifying them since he was 16 years old. It began with his first car, a '62 Chevy Nova, and then moved onto putting together a Kaminari-inspired Toyota Celica GTS in later years. When he first purchased the WRX, his main goal was to build it for road racing, which is why the first parts he installed, with the help of his father, were a set of Cusco Zero-1 coilovers and camber plates for alignment adjusting.

With a simple combination of minor tuning and a quality suspension system, he took his ride to a few track events, which essentially pushed him in to an all-out addiction with road racing. But like most addictions, there were serious drawbacks. In his case, the cost of replacing tires and brakes added up quickly, so he focused on the show aspect of tuning instead. During his first stints in the car-show circuit, his competitiveness from racing naturally transferred over to the showroom floor. When he lost a few trophies to what he thought were lesser cars, he immediately stepped up his game and created the WRX we see today.

Underhood, he replaced the stock turbo with a Blouch TD05-18G, featuring an HKS V2 SSQV blow-off valve, a Turbo XS front-mount intercooler and Turbo XS intercooler piping. To add more efficient fuel and air into the mix, he installed Power Enterprise 800cc fuel injectors and a Turbo XS shorty intake with a K&N cone filter. Handling the exhaust duties is an A'PEXi cat-back exhaust system and GT-spec stainless steel manifold. The engine is made to look sexy with Samco radiator hoses, a GReddy oil cap, a Koyo racing radiator and a Nitrous Express N-tercooler system.

"The feeling of knowing that someone considered my car worthy of winning increased my addiction to continue upgrading my car," Joseph explained. "That's why after the engine work, I focused solely on the appearance of my vehicle and pursued a clean but distinguished look."

His first major change was a customized body kit to get the flared look similar to that of the actual WRC car. He then added on Chargespeed carbon-fiber air brake ducts, C-West side skirts and a ZeroSports grille. He also changed the color from black to a two-tone approach, using a House of Kolor gold all over with a midnight black pearl on the roof. Of course, tuning wouldn't be complete without the necessary JDM accessories. Joseph added a JDM v2 STi two-piece carbon-fiber lip, JDM STi projector headlights, a S202 rear wing and JDM Subaru vent visors. Under the chassis is a set of quality-choice Rays Engineering G-games Wolf 77 wheels, measuring 18x8.5 in the front and 18x9.5 in the rear, wrapped up by Dunlop Direzza Z101 tires that give that car the oh-so-fresh look.

"So far this year has been great," Joseph smiled "I had the opportunity to have EDO Performance sponsor my car and I've solidified a future for my ride, starting with a hybrid motor swap and upgraded transmission components to ensure the life of my vehicle." And with 327 hp to the wheels under his helm and first place wins at the 2007 Las Vegas Hot Import Nights, Joseph has more to smile about than the future plans of his WRX. He made sure he not to tarnish the cars reputation by installing inferior parts; instead he created a masterpiece that also made him proud to be a tuner.

Ready To Move You - 2008 Scion tC

2008-11-06T03:26:00.000-08:00

writer: Carter Jung
photographer: Aaron Powell

Ever since I've known Ben Chong, he's been into cars. To call him an enthusiast would be like calling Jessica Simpson a blonde--a severe understatement. Like a handful of us lucky enough to transition a hobby into a career, Ben started with RS-R in 2002. Now the director of business development, Ben has taken development seriously for the past five years.

Before Formula D and D1 ever smoked up the now infamous Irwindale Speedway, RS-R was the first to hold a drift competition on the infield with D1 judge Orido. In July 2003, 2NR featured their D1 exhibition 350Z on our cover. More recently, Ben helped develop and run the S2000 Formula D drift program--launching Alex Pfeiffer and Tyler McQuarrie into the spotlight. Now Ben and RS-R are back in drifting with a whole new car, the Scion tC; 2NR got the inside scoop on what it took to make it happen.

From the mouth of Ben Chong:
To get a car to drift is not as hard as some people may say it is. Some basic modifications, hours of seat time, and a whole lot of tires will get you on your way to smoking sideways in no time. Of course, today your daily driven street drifter wouldn't cut it in the professional circuit. The ante, as they say, has gone up. Professional drifters battle ferociously and are always on the lookout for that extra edge.

After four massive years into Formula D, the roster of seeded and un-seeded cars is diverse: from Toyota Corollas to Dodge Vipers, and Nissan 240SXs to Ford Mustangs, domestics and imports now compete at a professional level. But a few years back, not all of these makes made for the typical drift car. One example of a ride that seemed unorthodox at the time was our RS-R Honda S2000. This was a vehicle that upon its very conception was something that everyone thought would fail on its quest to become a competitive vehicle. But here at RS-R we took this roadster and modified it to not only break traction, but to maintain a slide in any given direction, have the ability to change its line and angle at will, and also equipped it with sufficient horsepower-to-weight ratio to work the competition. What most said could not be done, was done.

After pulling out of Formula D in 2007, all seemed quiet. Many wondered where the first Honda that competed professionally went. Well now it's 2008, a new season of Formula Drift is upon us, and RS-R is back with a completely new ride. When RS-R premiered the S2000, it gave Honda fans something to cheer for at drifting events. Now, after two long years in the making, RS-R will give a new generation of fans a new drum to march to: the Scion tC.

"Naturally, the first question that pops into your mind is, `Hold up, this is a front-wheel-drive car, how can it compete in Formula D?' With a little research, we found out that the tC shares its chassis origins from an all-wheel-drive vehicle not sold in the U.S. But it wasn't as easy as swapping in a sub frame, engine and transmission, and splitting the transfer case to power the rear wheels. If the S2000 was a difficult build, the tC was exponentially more complicated.

"A simple solution would have been to remove the front output shafts, diverting all the power to the rear wheels, but that can only handle so much energy before breakage. The stock transfer case wouldn't handle the power levels we needed to be competitive. Plus, we saw it as an opportunity for RS-R to showcase our experience and knowledge of making a non-driftable car drift.

By now, I,'m sure everyone is dying to know which all-wheel-drive subframe and rear end is shared with the Scion tC chassis: the Toyota Caldina. Sold exclusively in Japan, the Caldina is Toyota,'s take on a sporty wagon, but more importantly it was offered as an optional all-wheel-drive in certain trims. Using the Toyota Caldina transverse engine and drivetrain would have been relatively easy, but where,'s the fun in that? Since weight balance and distribution were key factors for the build, the decision was made to take the factory engine and drivetrain setup and run it longitudinally. We could have just chopped the firewall to make room for the engine and transmission, but it isn,'t allowed in the Formula D rulebook. Working around this posed quite a problem. It was a herculean task that Gary Castillo of Design Craft Fabrication was up for, especially since he had worked with RS-R in building the Honda S2000 years ago.

For the transmission, we went with a G-Force five-speed with a custom bell housing. The housing bolts up to the motor and is specifically designed to run a tiny 7-inch Tilton triple carbon clutch to help clear the firewall tunnel. And with the engine position changed, we had to scrap the Japanese driveshaft in favor for a new one and have new mounts fabricated.

One of the biggest questions we asked ourselves was which motor should we go with? Discussions about the proper powerplant for the tC led to weight, which then led to balance, resulting in the selection of the 3S-GE Beams motor. Stroked to a 2.2L, controlled by an AEM EMS unit, and boosted by an HKS GT3037 turbo, we estimate power at 400 hp. We,'re also running a Tom,'s dry sump kit to lower the engine as close as possible to the ground, while providing additional clearance for the transmission.

As unique as the car was going to be in the drifting world, we knew we couldn,'t go with a run-of-the-mill body kit. With the help of KC Chow at APR Performance and a widebody kit creation by an undisclosed designer, the fenders and quarter panels come out an additional 2 inches on each side, and the exhaust system exits the center of the rear bumper. The dry carbon doors, hood, roof, and trunk, were all made specifically for this project.

Suspension is obviously handled by RS-R coilovers, along with other custom pieces to help dial-in the handling characteristics of the vehicle. But suspension performance is utterly useless without a good set of wheels and tires. Toyo R1R tires are mounted on Enkei RPF1 wheels, and braking power has been significantly upgraded with Project Mu brake calipers and rotors. Now rocking a widebody stance, wheels in the front run 18x9.5 with an +18 offset on 245/40/18 tires and 18x10.5 in the rear with a +15 offset on 265/35/18 Toyos.

Interior features include a Stack display to watch the rpm, boost, oil pressure, water temperature, and fuel pressure. Sparco seats and harnesses are used to ensure driver safety, along with a Sparco shift knob and steering wheel; all of which have been custom-mounted so that the seat can be pushed back from the factory location to improve the tC,'s weight balance. Behind the driver seat is the dry sump oil tank, and behind the passenger seat is the fuel cell.

Taking a car like the Scion tC and converting it to a rear-wheel configuration may sound as simple as swapping the drivetrain, engine, and subframes, but drifting it competitively is a different story. Only time will tell how this car will do throughout the series. With Ken Gushi as our driver, and with Scion and Toyo on board, we like to think we have a damn good chance. Wish us luck and I,'ll see you at a Formula D event soon.,"

NAME

rS-R USA

HOMETOWN

Osaka, Japan

OCCUPATION

Tuner and Developer of High Performance parts

HOBBIES

Racing

BUILD TIME

THREE MONTHS

Feedback

info@rs-r.com

Quote

"This Scion tC was a concept two years in the making, we are proud to finally make it a reality."

OUTPUT

400 hp

ENGINE

3SGE Beams motor; Peterson external oil pump; Tom's dry sump pan; HKS GT3037 turbo, external wastegate, intercooler, camshafts; Blitz Dual SBC boost controller; Toda 2.2 L stroker kit; Koyo aluminum radiator; BDL 72mm throttle body; SX fuel regulator, SX fuel pump; 850cc injectors; custom center-exit exhaust

DRIVETRAIN

G-Force five-speed sequential transmission; Tilton triple carbon clutch; Kaaz LSD

SUSPENSION

RS-R coilovers, custom control arms, custom tie rods

WHEELS/TIRES

Enkei RPF1 (18x9.5 front, 18x10.5 rear); Toyo R1R tires (245/40/18 front, 265/35/18 rear)

BRAKES

Project Mu four-piston front calipers and rotors, brake lines, custom modified four-piston rear calipers and rotors (two pistons controlled by the foot brake, two pistons controlled by the hand brake), brake pads

EXTERIOR

Custom concept widebody kit

INTERIOR

Sparco Corsa seats, six-point harnesses, steering wheel, shift knob; Design Craft spec custom rollcage

ELECTRONICS

Stack dash display; AEM EMS engine management

Ignition - 1994 Honda Civic Hatchback Si

2008-11-06T03:16:00.000-08:00

Just Your Average 790WHP Rocket

writer: Joey Leh
photographer: Eric Kieu

If there are two things that hold true in America, it's that drag racing and burnouts will never die. Trends on the show scene will come and go, and different car platforms will always die off, but the US is the US. Transcending all boundaries, it doesn't matter if you drive a Camaro or a Civic, the strip will be calling. A big, smoldering burnout is the late night American entertainment of choice, and the quarter mile will forever remain the de-facto standard of measurement for a car's performance. Forget the Brits and their obsession with the 0-100-0 test, in America, lining up at the tree is a rite of passage.

With 789hp and 531 lb-ft of torque available at the wheels, Paul Ho's1994 Honda Civic Si has run a best time of 9.96 at 149mph. Built to be one of the best looking drag cars around, as well as one of the fastest, Ho's car is street driven and often taken sans-trailer to local Southern California drag racing events. The original plan of attack for this EG was a weekend racer that made only about 550 wheel hp. With sponsors and shops failing to follow through on their word, Ho took the project into his own hands. As the head of research and development for induction and exhaust manufacturer Injen Technology, Ho was in the right position to finish his project. Together, with fellow R&D-man Byron Leggett, Ho formed PB Racing (get it?) and set out to create the fastest street-driven B-series Civic around.

The heart of the beast is a B18C1 Integra GS-R engine block, which was punched out to a 84.5mm bore to accomplish a 2.0L displacement size. Larger-than-stock 9.0:1 compression ratio Arias pistons and rings are now used, hung with billet Pauter connecting rods on a Pauter crankshaft. The cylinder head was lifted from a B16 and received a Manny Rodriguez port and polish with a 3-angle valve job. Custom "secret grind" PB Racing camshafts are used with Skunk2 cam gears to dial in mysterious amounts of lift and duration. Oversized valves are used in the head to support those cams, along with Eibach valve springs and Crower retainers.

A custom top-mount, equal-length stainless exhaust manifold was fabricated to hold the Innovative Turbo T72 dual ball-bearing unit. Custom compressor and turbine wheels were fit into the turbocharger, picked to provide the perfect balance of response and power output. A HKS GT external wastegate is used to regulate boost pressure, and flows exhaust gases into a custom Injen 4-inch downpipe and exhaust system. On the cold side, a custom Injen front-mount intercooler was fabricated, along with all the piping required and a flange for a GReddy Type-R blow-off valve.

The oiling system remains Honda stock, although the ignition has been completely redone using an MSD 7AL-2 CD ignition system and Magnecor 10mm spark plug wires. An Aeromotive fuel pump is used to send massive amounts of liquefied gold to 1600cc/min RC Engineering fuel injectors. A STR fuel rail sits on top of the injectors, along with a custom fabricated PB Racing fuel sump. Accel DFI's Gen 7 engine management system is tuned to deliver a reality-bending 790 wheel hp. If you're ever on the freeway and catch a glimpse of a golden arrow shooting down the lane next to you, don't bother; this car is completely untouchable at rolling speeds.

A Competition Clutch twin-disk setup holds down this prodigious power output, along with the requisite lightweight flywheel. Quaife's torque biasing limited-slip differential provides extra grip off the line, sending boosted torque into the Driveshaft Shop Stage 5 reinforced axles, which are rated up to 800whp.

Because Ho fully anticipated the speeds at which this Civic would be traveling in competition, one of the first things done to the chassis was the addition of a full roll cage. Painted in a golden hue to match the pristine exterior, the cage is a welcome addition, both in terms of safety as well as chassis strength. More than 500 lb-ft of torque at the wheels was probably the last thing on the minds of Honda engineers when they sat down to design the Civic chassis. Because he has taken his car to such a high level of performance, Ho has had to virtually reinvent his Civic from the ground up.

To ensure proper traction and weight transfer off the line, Leggett spent a significant amount of time fine-tuning the suspension and balance of this Honda. A'PEXi coilovers sit underneath this beast, with 1000lb/in custom springs resting at all four corners. Skunk2 Racing adjustable camber arms are utilized to properly align the wheels, an often overlooked area for any drag car. L-Con Engineering traction bars are the final touch of grace for this EG, ensuring that excessive front control arm movement is kept to a minimum, and pure acceleration is kept to the maximum.

Although a drag car's brakes don't need to stand up to strict road racing standards, Ho does drive this car on public roads and serious velocities could be reached. Factory Acura Integra GS-R brakes are used all around, with a stock GS-R master cylinder and brake booster to match. Covering those binders are a set of Japan's finest forged wheels, Volk Racing's TE37 in bronze. Sized 16x7, the Volks remain Ho's street wheel, wrapped in 205/45/16 Toyo T1-S rubber. For the drag races, Ho mounts up a set of 13x9 Bogart Savoy three-piece billet race wheels, covered in stickier-than-glue M&H Racemaster drag slicks.

With the speed aspect more than covered, Ho has only the exterior of his Civic to worry about in order to accomplish his goal of go and show. In order to build one of the best looking drag cars on the circuit, Ho had P.J. Bonifacio Autodesign slather his chassis in gold paint, both inside and out. A Mugen front lip and side skirts add a little bit of edge to the bodywork, while a Seibon carbon-fiber hood, hatch and roof spoiler cut a few excess pounds from the car. The interior is half stripped for competition and wears custom carbon-fiber paneling on the center console and in place of the original airbags. Those racing seats aren't to be messed with either; they're Seibon units, manufactured out of super strong, lightweight carbon-kevlar. GReddy water temp, oil temp, oil pressure, fuel pressure and exhaust gas temperature gauges prove to be the sole source of in-car entertainment, besides freeway burnouts of course. Having fabricated a custom PB Racing carbon-fiber sunroof delete panel, Ho's Civic weighs in at around 2500lbs with Ho sitting in it.

Dealing a serious blow to all the front-drive critics, Ho has consistently smoked American iron on their battlefield of choice, the drag strip. Having built a motor that can push more power than a Viper, as well as a body that could sweep the local shows, Ho can rest assured that he has reached his goals. Keeping this car street legal throughout this build was not an easy task, but Ho now has a car that can provide thrills on the street and absolute terror at the drag strip. Trapping almost 150mph in the quarter mile is no joke for a stock-bodied EG Civic, and just proves that there is still some potential left in the import drag world after all.

Jack Of All Trades - Tanner Foust

2008-11-06T03:15:00.000-08:00

writer: Ryan McKay

photographer: Henry Z. DeKuyper

If Import Tuner had an award for being an all-around, kick-ass racecar driver, Tanner Foust would probably win it. Not only does this well-rounded driver and 32-year old from Steamboat, Colorado race rally cars, drift cars and compete in just about any other type of racing you can imagine, he does them all very well. So well, in fact, he has his hands in just about every pot in the automotive industry. He's so deep in the fold that he crashes at Rhys Millen's multi-million dollar pad while pursuing a career as a stunt car driver. Having driven for "Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift," and "The Dukes of Hazard" movies, Foust's latest endeavor into stunt driving is already blossoming.

Getting to where he's at wasn't an overnight affair, though. Being able to switch from racing off-road rally cars to road racing and drifting takes lot of skill. It's all about learning to master the art of car control. Do that, and you can drive just about anything well at the limit. Foust learned the ropes of car control teaching ice driving in Colorado-and in our opinion-there are few better ways to learn how to control your car than on the frozen slippery stuff.

While Foust fell in love with drifting cars across ice, it's no surprise he's made the shift to drifting on the paved stuff. His drifting foray has been a successful one, with Foust racking up wins in Formula D and D1 drift events in this wicked Nissan 350Z. Foust may drive the 350Z, but the keys to the wheels under Foust's drifting passions belong to AEM. A premiere aftermarket manufacturer in the import world, AEM has the manpower and resources to build some of the baddest cars out there. But this one wasn't built solely for Foust's pleasure-it was built to showcase AEM's products.

The folks over at AEM tell us the car was built over a 12-week period and cost an undisclosed amount of money to build (obviously a lot). They tell us the Nissan hits the track about twice a month, campaigning in Formula Drift and D1 events. As a testament to the ability of AEM, the 350Z and Foust, the team took the win at Formula D Atlanta-in the car's second race ever. Pretty impressive indeed.

Although it weighs in at a svelte (for a 350Z) 2900 lbs., it still takes some serious motivation to get this thing sideways down the track. With 450 hp at the rear wheels, this car has no problem lighting them up on demand. The VQ35 engine required some tweaking, however, and the twin Garrett GT25R turbochargers are the backbone of the engine mods. While the 3.5-liter Nissan mill retains its stock bore and stroke, the bottom end still received its fair share of work.

Benson Automotive Machining, in Costa Mesa, Calif., handled the machining, while the prepped and measured parts were carefully assembled in-house at AEM, with their man Stephan Papadakis doing the honors. The VQ now sports the stock forged crank, 10:1 compression JE pistons, JE rings, and off-the-shelf Eagle connecting rods. The oiling system is still stock, other than an APS oil pan. With the shortblock together, AEM shifted its attention to the VQ's cylinder heads, doing nothing more than adding a set of Jim Wolf valve springs.

A pair of turbos are responsible for getting enough air into the Nissan mill to make 450-wheel hp, but they aren't doing it alone. An APS cast-iron exhaust manifold was used to join the twin Garrett ball-bearing turbos to the VQ's aluminum heads, and the spent gasses exiting the turbos are routed into a custom, 3.5-inch stainless-steel exhaust. With the engine build in the bag, lining up some good engine management was next on the list.

Like we said, AEM built this car to showcase their products, and that's exactly what its done. This 350Z rocks AEM's best, including a universal AEM EMS, an AEM fuel-pressure regulator, and an AEM Gauge-type UEGO controller (wideband O2 sensor). The EMS works in conjunction with a set of six APS/Bosch 500cc/min fuel injectors, an AEM adjustable fuel-pressure regulator, and a tank full of 110 octane fuel to make sure the engine gets enough gas to match the massive quantities of air the Garrett huffers blow into the VQ's stock intake manifold. AEM's contributions to the Nissan's electronics didn't stop there, though. The car rocks an AIM dash that communicates with the AEM ECU, and an AEM Serial Datastream Gauge. Pretty sweet, huh? We think so.

The 350's stock transmission has held up to the torture of 450 hp and the rigors of drifting so far, with only mods to the drivetrain being the addition of an ACT 6-puck, single-plate clutch, a lightened OEM flywheel and a Nismo 1.5-way clutch-type LSD. The workhorse clutch and strong LSD have proven their ability to get those horses to the ground without any fanfare. Good news for boosted 350Z owners who like to abuse their toys.

A race car with gobs of horsepower and fitted with a good drivetrain is useless without a good suspension. This holds true even to racing in a straight line (check out the suspension on a full-blown drag car), and is even more important in drifting. The 350Z's OEM suspension setup is good enough for a daily driver, but this racecar needed a little more. In search of the perfectly balanced Z, AEM fitted theirs with what they dubbed the "AEM Racing/Tokico" suspension kit. Up front, the bastard suspension consists of Tokico dampers/springs and JIC tie-rod ends, while out back, the same spring/damper combo was used. Stillen adjustable anti-roll bars were added front and back to keep the car flat and stable while sliding across the racetrack.

Brakes are important, too. If you doubt that, try driving your car down a steep mountain road without using the brakes or downshifting. AEM didn't need us to tell them that, though. They must have gotten the memo, because they went ahead and made a few mods to the stock brakes to help keep the car out of the tire wall. The OEM braking system was good enough that with the addition of Axxis brake pads and Motul fluid, the braking system was deemed sufficient. And if you think you see a linelock on the brake lines, you are correct. Now pat yourself on the back. We guess Foust likes to do big, smokey burnouts.

Good brakes may be able to help Foust avoid any stationary objects, but collisions are inevitable, and Foust is no stranger to crashing. As a teenager, he rolled his Honda Civic end-over-end seven times. So it's no surprise he wears a ton of safety gear. In addition to the three-layer fire suit, fire-resistant nomex socks, shoes, gloves and helmet he wears, the 350Z has its own accessories to keep the driver in one piece. A rollcage, fire suppression and countless other pieces of safety equipment are requisite items on a racecar. The rollcage was custom-built by Steen Chassis, and Foust can now strap himself tightly into his Sparco seat and harness. Safety first!

With the interior and drivetrain finished, AEM got to work on the exterior. The bodywork was tackled by MOB Works in Orange, Calif. MOB installed the front Seibon fenders, Versus body kit, Seibon hatch, Rotora wing, custom MOB Works rear fenders and covered the whole shebang in Lambo yellow in less than 3 weeks. Not bad, considering we've waited longer at the DMV. Finally, AEM picked a set of Motegi Touge wheels to fill out the fenderwells of the Z, measuring 18x9 up front and 18x10 in the rear. Shod in 235/40/18 and 285/40/18 Toyo T1-R rubber, the 350 is sitting pretty.

Teaching people to drive on ice may be an uncommon way to learn to drive race cars, but as we can see by Foust's huge success in drifting, rally, and stunt-driving, it may be one of the best ways to learn. Expect to see Foust behind the wheel of this killer machine in the winner's circle at a drift event near you

Spider Bite

2008-11-06T03:11:00.000-08:00

The answer is yes, you bet your ass it is!
Photography by: Dan Chavkin

Bloody knuckles, agonizing tears and a cardboard-box bed might describe some transient who walks the streets. But this also describes Richard Tang of Hacienda Heights, Calif. Calling the office home for two weeks and getting a total of 10 hours of sleep, Tang burned the midnight oil to prepare his 1991 240SX for the 2004 SEMA convention. With his buildup deadline merely two weeks away, he worked around the clock. Despite knowing the pains of procrastination, Tang, like many SEMA exhibitors, began working on his project vehicle, dubbed JDMRICE3, only days before the big event.

Two months prior to SEMA, Jiro Adachi of Tanabe USA was looking for a candidate to build an S13 with Kazama's suspension products and Nagisa Auto's (NAMS) chassis products, which were recently made available in the States under Tanabe's More Japan division. It seemed Adachi's search had finally come to an end: There was no one more qualified than Tang for the buildup. He had already built one sick-ass S13, dubbed JDMRICE2, for the 2003 SEMA show; this car eventually graced our cover in December 2003.

There was one daunting task: Tang was asked to create an exact replica of the Kazama S15 that Manabu Orido drove to set a record lap time of 59.45 seconds at Tsukuba Circuit in 2003. "I knew it was going to be a hard project to build, but I still accepted the offer and was determined to take on the task headfirst," stated Tang.

While waiting for the body kit and suspension components to arrive via air from Japan, Tang disassembled his 240 fastback. He drove it to G-Dimension located in the City of Industry, Calif., where the stripping process began. With the aid of James from G-Dimension, Tang and a friend removed the perfectly running stock KA engine with plans to install a SR20DET. After removing all the wiring and engine components, they towed it to P.J. Bonifacio for prepping and painting. Prep work included removing the factory panels to keep the interior design simple. After scraping sound-deadening material from the interior, the body was then stitch-welded over a grueling two-day period.

Recaro Profi SPG XL buckets and Takata MPH four-point harnesses add some JDM flavor while keeping the driver out of harm's way at all times. A Nardi steering wheel attached to an NRG quick-release hub enables Tang to enter and exit without re-aggravating his hernia. In place of the factory shifter resides a C's short shifter attached to a Kazama shift knob. A matching Kazama spin-turn release knob completes the interior transformation.

Audiophiles might shed a few tears knowing the factory head unit compartment has been overrun with HKS's newest meter lineup. The black face RS DB 60mm boost, oil temp and fuel pressure meters are custom-mounted in a carbon-fiber plate allowing Tang to use the meters' warning, peak hold, simultaneous display and playback to their full potential.

Only Kazama offers a publicly available, S13 to S15 front-fender conversion kit, which enables any consumer to implement the coveted S15 front face. Using a set of limited-edition silver S15 headlights, the Kazama front bumper was attached using corner-mount fasteners and then topped off with a Seibon S15 AB-style vented, carbon-fiber hood. With blister fenders out front, the rear quarter-panel needed wider hips.For two days straight, Tang and his fellow employees at P.J. Bonafacio Auto Design meticulously molded a set of M-Sport wide fenders to the skin. The rear bumper and side skirts are also M-Sport issues, which were purchased through Renova Auto. Superior Nissan came through for Tang with a set of 180SX late-model Type-X taillights. In the rear, a Rotora 3-D GT wing channels downforce to the rear tires when sliding through the turns.

With the newfound fender space, oversized offset rims became a necessity. Tang opted for a set of custom J-Line wheels. New to the market, these 18x9.5- and 18x10-inch rims are laced with the newest trend in foot apparel: red chrome center spokes. Graciously sized Toyo Proxes T1-S tires, 235/40-18 up front and 255/35-18 in back, tuck within millimeters of the fender well. Replacing the underachieving factory brakes are a set of Brembo Skyline four-piston calipers in front and two-piston units out back. After completing the exterior, Tang's friends, James and Danny from S.I.X. Autoworks, paid a visit to help him install an office full of suspension product from Kazama, NAMS and Tanabe. Because the vehicle was a moving advertisement for the top three Japanese suspension companies, Tang sat under the car with a toothbrush in hopes of cleaning off the 14 years of dirt and oil that had accumulated in the wheel wells.

Kazama supplied its front tension rods, super tie rod ends, tension support bar, rear camber arms, rear toe arms, rear traction arms and sub-frame bushings. NAMS was also in the mix. Its top-selling Gacchiri fender brace and Shakitto strut tower plate, dramatically reduce body flex. Tanabe supplied its Sustec Pro Type II coil-over system, front and rear strut tower bars and--for added vehicle control--a set of front and rear sway bars.

With so much detail going into the suspension and body, it's a good thing Tang wanted an engine that would also set new standards. Enlisting the experts at Phase 2 Motortrend of Hacienda Heights, the crew rebuilt the SR20DET with HKS goodies. A set of HKS step two camshafts with a 264-degree intake and exhaust maintain extreme revs with the aid of a HKS rocker arm stopper kit and valve springs. Pressurizing the hot pipes, the enormous Type-S front-mount intercooler chills the intake charge while a Super Sequential blow-off valve releases excess pressure into the atmosphere. Spent exhaust is vacated though a Tanabe downpipe and finally terminates though a Super Medallion racing exhaust. Tang purchased a 1.2mm HKS head gasket and Power Enterprises Kevlar-lined Super V-belt. A Power Enterprise aluminum radiator and hose kit replace the notoriously inefficient factory radiator. A set of 660cc Power Enterprise injectors are given sufficient fuel through an HKS racing fuel pump. Dyno figures prove that older cars such as the 240 will benefit from an improved grounding system. The SR20 now sports a Sun Automotive Hyper ground system and Hyper voltage system. Transferring the power to the tarmac is an HKS single plate clutch. It delivers equal power to the rear tires though a NISMO two-way limited-slip differential.With body work and prepping done a week before the debut, the team worked in a frenzy to custom mix and match a color similar to the Kazama car using only sample photos and magazine clippings. Using a stage four derivative of Ford's E9 Laser Red Metallic paint, Tang produced a color strikingly similar to its predecessor. It is a blood red hue that suddenly changes to a luminous pearl metallic when in sunlight.

With the paint still fresh, the 240 was towed to Euphoic Designs in Gardena, Calif., where Jessie and his crew designed the graphics on computer by simply looking at the same photos used to match the paint. The final design speaks for itself. The intricate spider web design took 18 hours to complete. With the clock ticking away, Tang trailered the vehicle and sped off down the Nevada Highway. Lady Luck was on his side as he managed to deliver the Kazama replica car.

"Many consider this vehicle a completed project," said Tang. "I say it's a never-ending process and I still have a long way to go before I am truly satisfied with JDMRICE3." Tang plans to drive the car back to XS Engineering of Huntington Beach, Calif., to extract additional horsepower and fine-tune the HKS V-Pro for this year's Time Attack and drift events. So, watch out guys, JDMRICE3 is coming to a drift event near you!

PowerMic for Yahoo Messenger - Version: 2.3

2008-11-04T01:28:00.000-08:00

PowerMic for Yahaven - Version: 2.3.0.1

2008-11-04T01:26:00.000-08:00

PowerMic for YahElite - Version: 2.3

2008-11-04T01:23:00.000-08:00

PowerMic for Yazak - Version: 2.3

2008-11-04T01:21:00.000-08:00